ICC Chairman Jay Shah is set to meet Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake on Friday for discussions surrounding the future of the interim committee currently overseeing Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC).
The International Cricket Council (ICC) has expressed concerns over the appointment of the interim panel, viewing the move as potential political interference in cricket administration. Such interference would be in direct conflict with ICC regulations, which require national cricket boards to function independently of government control.
ICC pushes for democratic elections
The controversy began in late April when Sri Lanka’s Sports Minister Sunil Kumar Gamage appointed an interim committee to take charge of the country’s cricket board operations.
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In recent days, the ICC has reportedly communicated with SLC CEO Ashley de Silva regarding the matter. While the contents of the correspondence have not been made public, the governing body’s position is understood to be clear: it wants Sri Lanka Cricket to conduct democratic elections for its office-bearers without delay.
ICC UPDATE
ICC Chairman Jay Shah met Sri Lanka legend Sanath Jayasuriya in Ahmedabad.
• Discussions were held on cricket development administration and the future growth of the game in the region
• A significant meeting between two influential figures in world cricket. pic.twitter.com/Lz0M314V6e— News Sports (@Newssports2_0) June 19, 2026
The ICC has consistently maintained that elected administrations are essential to preserving the autonomy and integrity of member boards.
Interim committee seeks long-term role
The interim committee had hoped to secure ICC approval to continue in office while pursuing a series of structural reforms, including amendments to Sri Lanka Cricket’s constitution.
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The panel replaced the previous executive committee led by Shammi Silva, who was elected in 2025 and was expected to remain in office until May 2027. However, Silva and his colleagues stepped aside after President Dissanayake expressed dissatisfaction with the board’s functioning and requested changes in the administration.
Jay Shah’s upcoming meeting with President Dissanayake is expected to play a key role in determining the future direction of Sri Lanka Cricket. The Sri Lankan government faces the challenge of balancing its plans for governance reforms with the ICC’s strict stance against political involvement in cricket administration. A resolution will be crucial to avoid any potential sanctions from the sport’s global governing body.
